BREAKING NEWS: Savannah Bananas Owners Jesse and Emily Cole Donate $12.9 Million to Build Homeless Support Centers in Chicago and Rancho Cucamonga
In a remarkable act of generosity and social responsibility, Jesse and Emily Cole, the charismatic owners of the world-famous Savannah Bananas baseball team, have pledged their entire $12.9 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at combating homelessness in the United States.
The couple announced at a press conference that the funds will be used to build two large-scale homeless support centers — one in Chicago, Illinois, and the other in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Together, these facilities will provide 150 permanent housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds for individuals and families in dire need.
Standing before reporters, Jesse and Emily Cole spoke emotionally about the inspiration behind their decision. “I have witnessed people struggling to survive the harsh winters in the U.S. without a roof over their heads,” Jesse Cole said. “I promised myself that if I ever had the chance, I would step up. No one should have to sleep outside in that kind of cold.”
The announcement has drawn widespread praise across the nation, with community leaders, fans, and social service organizations hailing the move as both bold and compassionate. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson commended the effort, saying, “This is the kind of leadership we need. The Coles are using their platform to bring real, tangible change to people’s lives.”
The support centers are set to include not just shelter and housing but also job training programs, mental health services, addiction recovery resources, and family support programs. The Coles emphasized that their goal is not only to provide a safe place to stay but also to empower individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
Emily Cole highlighted the family’s motivation, saying, “Our journey with the Savannah Bananas has been about bringing joy, hope, and togetherness to people through baseball. This initiative is an extension of that same vision — to bring communities together and uplift those who need it most.”
Fans of the Savannah Bananas, known for their unconventional and entertaining approach to baseball, expressed pride in the couple’s humanitarian efforts. Social media was flooded with messages praising their selflessness, with hashtags like #BananasGiveBack and #ColeCares trending shortly after the announcement.
Construction for both centers is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion projected within two years. Advocates believe this initiative could serve as a model for other sports owners and public figures to follow.
At a time when homelessness continues to rise in major U.S. cities, the Coles’ decision sends a powerful message: compassion and action can change lives.